Surrounded by Idiots

1. People exhibit four main behavior types: Red, Yellow, Green, and Blue

"No matter what color you are, you will always be in the minority."

The DISA model classifies human behavior into four main types, each associated with a color:

• Red: Task-oriented and extroverted
• Yellow: People-oriented and extroverted
• Green: People-oriented and introverted
• Blue: Task-oriented and introverted

This system helps understand different communication styles and motivations. Most people (about 80%) have a combination of two dominant colors, while only 5% exhibit a single color strongly. Understanding these behavior types can significantly improve interpersonal relationships and team dynamics in both personal and professional settings.

2. Red behavior is characterized by dominance, decisiveness, and impatience

"Reds are quick and more than happy to take command if needed. They make things happen."

Reds are natural leaders who:

• Make quick decisions
• Focus on results and efficiency
• Can be impatient and aggressive
• Excel in competitive situations

Reds often struggle with:

• Listening to others
• Considering details
• Managing their temper
• Showing empathy

To work effectively with Reds, be direct, focus on results, and don't waste time with small talk. Challenge them respectfully, as they respect those who stand up to them. Remember that their directness is not personal; it's just their way of communicating efficiently.

3. Yellow behavior is optimistic, social, and often unfocused

"Yellows are very good communicators. With an emphasis on 'very.'"

Yellows are enthusiastic and creative individuals who:

• Love social interaction and being the center of attention
• Generate innovative ideas and solutions
• Struggle with focus and follow-through
• Have difficulty listening and remembering details

Yellows excel at:

• Public speaking and persuasion
• Creating a positive atmosphere
• Adapting to new situations
• Networking and building relationships

When working with Yellows, provide a fun and social environment, give them opportunities to express themselves, and help them stay focused on tasks. Be prepared to repeat important information and assist with organization and follow-through.

4. Green behavior is stable, patient, and conflict-averse

"Because Greens rarely make the first move and almost always allow others to step up first, you can easily get the impression that a Green is not especially interested or engaged."

Greens are team players who:

• Prioritize harmony and stability
• Listen well and support others
• Resist change and avoid conflict
• Can be passive-aggressive when upset

Greens excel at:

• Building and maintaining relationships
• Creating a calm and stable environment
• Following through on commitments
• Mediating conflicts

When working with Greens, provide a stable environment, avoid sudden changes, and give them time to adjust to new ideas. Encourage them to express their opinions and concerns, as they often keep their thoughts to themselves to avoid conflict.

5. Blue behavior is analytical, detail-oriented, and cautious

"Blues argue that if they're going to do something, they must do it correctly. And vice versa—if a task isn't worth being done properly, then it's not worth doing at all."

Blues are perfectionists who:

• Focus on accuracy and quality
• Analyze risks thoroughly before acting
• Can be overly critical and pessimistic
• Struggle with quick decision-making

Blues excel at:

• Attention to detail and quality control
• Developing systems and processes
• Identifying potential problems
• Providing well-researched solutions

When working with Blues, provide detailed information, allow time for analysis, and respect their need for accuracy. Be prepared to answer questions and provide evidence for your proposals. Help them balance their perfectionism with the need for timely action.

6. Recognizing behavior types improves communication and relationships

"Communication happens on the listener's terms."

Effective communication requires adapting to the listener's behavior type:

• Reds: Be direct, concise, and results-oriented
• Yellows: Be enthusiastic, social, and creative
• Greens: Be calm, patient, and supportive
• Blues: Be detailed, logical, and well-prepared

By recognizing and adapting to different behavior types, you can:

• Reduce misunderstandings and conflicts
• Build stronger relationships
• Improve team dynamics and productivity
• Enhance your personal and professional effectiveness

Practice observing behavior patterns in others and adjusting your communication style accordingly. This skill takes time to develop but can significantly improve your interactions with others.

7. Adapting your approach to different behavior types enhances effectiveness

"Good communication is often a matter of adapting to others."

Flexibility is key to successful interactions with different behavior types:

• With Reds: Be direct, focus on results, and avoid wasting time
• With Yellows: Be enthusiastic, social, and open to new ideas
• With Greens: Be patient, supportive, and avoid sudden changes
• With Blues: Be detailed, logical, and well-prepared

Adapting your approach doesn't mean changing who you are, but rather:

• Recognizing others' preferences and needs
• Adjusting your communication style to suit the situation
• Finding common ground and building rapport
• Balancing your natural tendencies with the needs of others

By developing this flexibility, you can improve your effectiveness in various personal and professional situations, from team leadership to customer service and personal relationships.

8. Understanding stress factors for each color helps manage team dynamics

"When under stress an individual's normal conduct and behavior are reinforced and exaggerated."

Stress affects each color differently:

• Reds become more aggressive and controlling
• Yellows become more disorganized and attention-seeking
• Greens become more passive and resistant to change
• Blues become more critical and pessimistic

To manage stress in a team:

• Recognize early signs of stress in each color
• Provide appropriate support and coping strategies
• Create an environment that balances the needs of all colors
• Encourage open communication about stress and workload

Understanding these stress factors can help leaders create more resilient teams and individuals develop better self-management strategies. It's crucial to address stress early to maintain team productivity and well-being.

9. Written communication reveals behavioral tendencies

"Many things are revealed in the way we write."

Written communication styles often reflect behavior types:

• Reds: Short, direct, and focused on action
• Yellows: Enthusiastic, personal, and sometimes unfocused
• Greens: Polite, considerate, and sometimes vague
• Blues: Detailed, formal, and focused on facts

Analyzing written communication can help you:

• Identify the sender's likely behavior type
• Adapt your response to their preferences
• Improve your own written communication effectiveness
• Build better relationships in digital environments

Pay attention to email styles, report writing, and even text messages to gain insights into others' behavior types. This can be particularly useful in remote work settings or when dealing with new contacts.

10. Self-awareness is key to personal growth and better interactions

"No system is perfect. There are always exceptions."

Developing self-awareness is crucial for:

• Understanding your own behavior type and tendencies
• Recognizing your strengths and areas for improvement
• Adapting more effectively to others' needs
• Improving personal and professional relationships

To increase self-awareness:

• Reflect on your typical reactions and preferences
• Seek feedback from others on your behavior
• Practice observing yourself in different situations
• Be open to learning and changing

Remember that behavior types are not fixed; they can evolve over time and in different contexts. The goal is not to label yourself or others, but to use this knowledge as a tool for better understanding and communication. Continuous self-reflection and adaptation are key to personal growth and more effective interactions with others.

Last updated: January 22, 2025